Schengen visa applicants will now have to get the COVID-19 test done twice, and vaccinated for the disease for future travel post the pandemic. By Tanvi Jain
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While borders of the Schengen and nearby areas remain sealed till September 2020, due to coronavirus, those seeking a visa for post-pandemic travel would need to get the COVID-19 test done twice. The first one will be required while applying for the visa – not over two weeks – and another one before travelling. The same was confirmed by a European Union official to schengenvisainfo.com as well.
Moreover, applicants will also have to get coronavirus vaccines once it’s been introduced, tested and made available. The measures are especially applicable to those travelling to Italy, France and Spain – the most severely affected countries. Similar measures were also taken during the Swine Flu and Ebola outbreaks.
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As the number of COVID-19 cases all over the world increases, the United States of America remains the worst hit with over 10 lakh coronavirus cases.
Reports by the World Tourism Organisation (WTO) suggest that the industry is likely to face a huge loss this year, due to travel restrictions all over the world. The European Union has also reportedly estimated the tourism economy to reduce by 70%.
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However, to give you some respite from your boredom and stress due to home quarantine, the Schengen virtual tour is streaming on various digital platforms to take you around the Schengen countries straight from your home.
Royal Palace of Caserta, Hermitage Museum of Russia, Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, The Skokloster Castle in Sweden, Sanssouci in Germany, Schönbrunn Palace, Austria, Palace of Versailles, France, National Palace of Sintra in Portugal, and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao — are some of the tourist spots you can virtually visit via these online tours.
Related: Schengen Visa Fee Hike Starting February. Here’s Why!
